Under Pacific Partnership 2011, the engineering projects were completed by Navy Mobile Construction Battalion 133, and included roof replacements, restroom, sidewalk, and partition repair, and paint upgrade. Participating on behalf of Pacific Partnership were Rear Adm. Paul Bushong and Construction Battalion 133 Commanding Officer Nicholas Yamodis.
Bushong is U.S. Defense Representative Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, and Republic of Palau; Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Marianas; and Commander, Joint Region Marianas.
During her remarks at the ceremonies, Dando said these schools are “solid evidence of the commitment of the people of the United States to making real improvements in the lives of the people of the FSM, who are our partners and our friends in this region of the world and globally.”
Dando thanked Battalion 133 members for their tireless efforts, and expressed hope that the facility would be maintained to the highest standard.
Turning to the local stakeholders, Dando, encouraged the community to take care of the school and take an active role in the school’s activities, the parents to demand and pursue excellence from the public school system, the teachers to renew their dedication to their careers and student achievement, and the administration to ensure a safe and clean learning environment.
Lastly, she urged students to absorb as much as possible from their academic experiences, explaining that hard work in the classroom will open doors for their future success.
Speaking on behalf of Pohnpei, Gov. John Ehsa expressed gratitude on behalf of the state, and committed to maintaining the facilities with pride: “These structures will be kept up to standards. They will not go to waste.”
In his remarks, Bushong noted that the projects illustrate Pacific Partnership’s focus on education, as well as the importance the U.S. places on its commitment under Title III of the Compact. With regards to defense and security, Bushong explained that “[The U.S.] is committed to the defense of Micronesia as if it were our own.”
Attending the events on behalf of Pohnpei traditional leadership were Wasa Lapalap Isopahu, Nahnmwarki of Madolenihmw and Likend Madolenihmw; Nahnmwarki of Kitti Wasa Lapalap Soukisoahloang and Nahnalek Kitti; and other traditional leaders from the respective municipalities.
Representing the FSM national government were Vice President Alik Alik, and Vice Speaker Berney Martin, and Secretary of Foreign Affairs Lorin Robert.
Attending on behalf of the Pohnpei state government were Governor Ehsa, first lady Junalinda Weital, and Director of Education Joe Villazon.
Attending on behalf of the Municipal governments were Kolonia Town Mayor Marcelo Peterson, Councilwoman Yuko Nakasone, Kitti Council acting Speaker Isokohnedi, Section VI Chief Masao Silbanuz, and other education administrators, teachers, community members, parents, and students.
